Wilfried Tagbo signed as Finn Harps eye Promotion

Posted on March 8, 2015

AX are delighted to announce another success story from Ireland in 2015 as imposing striker Wilfried Tagbo has agreed professional terms with Finn Harps . The Frenchman signs for the League of Ireland Division One side after a long association with AX, beginning at a combine at Birmingham City’s training ground in 2014.

After the UK combine, Tagbo was then invited to the development tour in Sweden and Finland in the summer of that year, and dominated the opposition in Scandinavia. After bagging four goals in the team’s final game, AX thought it was best for him to showcase his talents against superior opposition.

“Wilfried showed his potential on the Development Showcase in Sweden and Finland and proved to our staff that he deserved the opportunity to compete for a professional contract. Recognizing he needed to be pushed at a higher level we made sure he was on the next Pro Showcase to Ireland” said Managing Director Alex Grendi.

The Frenchman impressed many onlooking scouts and coaches in Ireland, especially in a 2-1 defeat to Wayside Celtic where he grabbed the solitary goal. Following a recommendation from tour director and Dublin City University head coach Declan Roche, The Harps were quick to take the popular forward on trial.

“I think the events were very professionally organized we were in good conditions to play football. The accommodation, the food, training, everything was perfect so we were ready to give the best against professional clubs,” Tagbo told AX.

His performances in County Donegal during pre-season saw him earn plaudits from both fans and management as he scored two goals in two friendlies. Since gaining international clearance, Tagbo can now allow himself to get excited about his full debut for Finn Harps.

“I think it is a great opportunity for me to play in this championship. I already enjoy being in the club and appreciate all my colleagues and the staff.”

A bad run at the end of the last season meant Finn Harps finished 5th and short of the playoff positions in 2014. In Wilfried Tagbo they have added some much needed fire power to their ranks as they dream of a return to the Premier Division and, eventually, a return to European football.

“While our Development Showcases are designed to help players improve and get higher level coaching and training, players who preform above the level of play will be rewarded with professional opportunities, and Wilfried is a perfect example of that.”